PLANNERS have finally given approval for a house to be built in the grounds of a bungalow in Seymour Road, Newton Abbot despite objections from neighbours.

The application for a contemporary two-storey home in the prominent location had sparked concerns from neighbours over a loss of privacy and the overbearing nature of the proposals.

Their fears prompted planning officers and the applicant, Fiona Allen, to re-visit the design and move the position of the new home.

Members paid a visit to the site to see the area for themselves.

One of the issues is a large window at the first floor level. Mrs Allen told members of Teignbridge Council’s planning committee: ‘We have no intention of trying to look into people’s home as has been suggested.

‘We have tried to take into account the concerns and have changed the design, reducing the living space.

‘We have done our best to overcome these objections and a lot of thought has gone into it.

‘The house will be built to a high standard and can only enhance the area.’

Cllr Beryl Austen described it as a ‘unique site’ and a property there would have ‘magnificent views’ which the owners would be ‘crazy’ not to take advantage of.

But she did not consider neighbouring houses would be overlooked. Others on the site visit agreed.

Cllr Chris Clarance said it was a modest house and well thought out while Cllr Vince Fusco said it was ‘well placed’.

Cllr Ros Prowse agreed it was a contentious issue but saw no planning reasons for refusal. But Cllr Jackie Brodie pointed out there had been a ‘substantial’ number of objections for a single dwelling proposal.

She said: ‘Neighbours aren’t opposed to any form of development and recognise it is a large site.

‘This revised proposal does not give a lot of solace to the neighbours. But by maximising the views, it severely impacts on their residential amenity.’